39 arrested over plot to illegally travel to Australia

Police have arrested a group of 39 individuals suspected of planning to illegally travel to Australia via boat from Matara.

The suspects, including 7 women and 14 children, were arrested at a residence in Kanattagoda last night following information received by police. They are said to be residents of Jaffna, Batticaloa and Trincomalee. The arrested persons will be produced at the Matara Magistrate’s Court today (02) while police are conducting further investigations.